Sandhya Raju

🪔 About

Byrraju Sandhya Raju is an acclaimed Indian Kuchipudi dancer, actress, and film producer. She began her Kuchipudi training at the age of ten under the legendary Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam at the Kuchipudi Art Academy in Chennai, which was located near her home. She also received instruction from prominent Kuchipudi Guru Kishore Mosalikanti, under whose guidance she completed her Rangapravesham. Sandhya Raju performed extensively with Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam both in India and internationally, including a significant role as Lord Krishna in his final production at the age of fifteen. She has delivered over 700 performances across India, Asia, Europe, the USA, and South Africa, showcasing her mastery of the classical dance form. Beyond her illustrious dance career, Sandhya Raju founded the Nishrinkala Dance Academy in Hyderabad, dedicated to preserving and propagating the authentic Kuchipudi style of her guru to the next generation. The academy offers free scholarships to aspiring dancers and also supports talented children from underprivileged backgrounds by providing free training and job opportunities. She made her acting debut in short films and her feature film debut in 2017. In 2021, she made her Telugu film debut with "Natyam," where she not only played the lead role but also served as a producer, production designer, stylist, and choreographer. Her efforts in "Natyam" earned her national recognition, solidifying her status as a cultural ambassador for Kuchipudi. Awards & Honours: 68th National Film Award for Best Choreography (2022).